Healing Beyond the USAID Cuts

Dear Donors,

We would like to share an updated snapshot of the situation facing LGBTIQ individuals living with HIV in Uganda. The effects of the U.S. support suspension continue to strain access to treatment. Consultation fees remain a major barrier, and drug stock-outs are still being reported in several health facilities. These challenges leave many community members at risk of missing their ARV refills and experiencing treatment interruptions.

With your support so far, we have been able to assist a growing number of individuals who had stopped or delayed treatment due to lack of funds. Covering their consultation fees has helped them return to care and maintain consistent access to medication. We have also stepped up our follow-up efforts within the community, identifying new cases that need urgent attention.

In addition, we continue to engage healthcare workers and facility leadership to address discrimination and improve service delivery for key populations. While progress is gradual, these conversations are opening space for more inclusive and respectful treatment environments.

Despite these steps forward, the demand for support is still far greater than the resources available. Many people remain vulnerable, and our target of assisting 200 individuals can only be reached with additional help. We still have a significant funding gap to close.

We kindly appeal to all donors and friends to continue supporting this initiative. Every contribution directly prevents treatment interruptions and protects the health and dignity of LGBTIQ individuals who depend on consistent HIV care.

Thank you for your continued solidarity.

Dear Donors

We're writing in to let you know that the suspension of U.S. support has had a severe impact on LGBTIQ individuals living with HIV in Uganda. Many in our community are now unable to access their antiretroviral (ARV) refills due to financial barriers. Health facilities require consultation fees for ARV distribution, a cost that most LGBTIQ individuals, already facing discrimination and unemployment, cannot afford. On top of this, drug stock-outs are becoming more common, leaving individuals without essential medication. These challenges have increased poverty levels, led to treatment interruptions, and put the health of many at serious risk.

This project was developed to directly respond to that gap, we aim to remove financial obstacles preventing LGBTIQ individuals from accessing HIV treatment. Specifically, the project will cover consultation fees for 200 individuals who need ARV refills, ensuring their treatment is uninterrupted. Beyond immediate support, we will engage healthcare stakeholders to raise concerns about drug shortages and push for more inclusive practices. Community awareness and advocacy activities will also be carried out to help reduce healthcare-related discrimination faced by LGBTIQ people.

The long-term impact of this project goes beyond emergency relief. By maintaining consistent ARV access, LGBTIQ individuals will experience improved adherence to HIV treatment, which reduces the risk of complications and strengthens overall community health. Additionally, by involving healthcare stakeholders and amplifying advocacy efforts, we aim to influence more inclusive healthcare policies that recognize and protect key populations like LGBTIQ individuals. This project not only addresses urgent needs but also builds a foundation for sustainable and equitable HIV services in Uganda.

At present, we still need to meet our target. We kindly appeal to donors and supporters to contribute to this important cause, ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing life-saving HIV treatment. Thank you.